Zillmer Yellow Loop

You'll find a large paved parking lot conveniently located at the trailhead. Remember that a Wisconsin state park pass is required for vehicles to access the area.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail! Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Mid-June is excellent for seeing wildflowers. Keep in mind that the Zillmer trails are multi-use and are closed to hikers when snow is present and groomed for cross-country skiing. The rustic backpacking shelter is available for reservations from April through November.

Yes, a Wisconsin state park pass is required for vehicles parked at the trailhead. You can typically purchase these passes at the park entrance or online.

The terrain is quite varied, featuring a mix of long flats, gentle slopes, and rolling hills, with a couple of more significant climbs. It's a wider path, not singletrack, so you won't encounter many roots. While some sections are described as 'fast scary winding downhill' for skiers, they are generally less challenging for hikers.

The Zillmer Yellow Loop is approximately 10.4 km (6.5 miles) long. Most hikers can expect to complete it in about 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop.

Yes, the trailhead is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find a large paved parking lot, drinking water, vault toilets, and even a warming shelter with a fireplace, which is especially nice during cooler months.

Yes, the route is part of a larger system and intersects with other trails. Specifically, it passes through sections of the Lake to Lake Bike Trail, as well as the Yellow Trail and the Brown Trail within the Zillmer system.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including beautiful oak and aspen groves, peaceful pine plantations, marshland, and open fields. The trail is often well-shaded by a thick canopy of the Kettle Moraine Forest, and wildflowers can be abundant, especially in mid-June.

While the Zillmer trail system does feature a scenic overlook with expansive views, it's important to note that this specific overlook is located on one of the other trails within the system, not directly on the Yellow Loop itself.

Yes, there is a rustic backpacking shelter located directly on the trail. It can be reserved for camping from April through November, offering a unique overnight experience.